Name: Irresistible Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe for Sweet Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure; no substitutions recommended for best texture.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Helps cookies rise; essential for fluffy texture.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness; use kosher or sea salt for the best flavor.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (Adds moisture and flavor; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.); 0.5 cups granulated sugar (Contributes to a crisp texture; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative.); 0.75 cups brown sugar (Adds moisture and caramel flavor; light or dark brown sugar works well.); 2 large eggs (Provides binding and moisture; flax eggs can serve as a vegan substitute.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.); 1 cups caramel chips (Creates gooey pockets of caramel; Kraft caramel bits are recommended for melting quality.); 0.5 cups chocolate chips (optional) (Adds richness; feel free to omit or swap with dark chocolate.); to taste flaky sea salt (Finishing touch for sweet-salty contrast; essential for flavor balance.)

Is there anything more heartwarming than a freshly baked cookie straight from the oven? These Ultimate Salted Caramel Cookies combine sweet and salty in every soft, chewy bite, making them an instant hit among family and friends. With a foolproof recipe that guarantees bakery-style results, you’ll discover how easy it is to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or trying to bring a little joy to your next gathering, these cookies are the perfect easy dessert option. Just imagine the captivating aroma filling your home as they bake. Are you ready to indulge in a delightful twist on the classic cookie?

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich, buttery caramel and a hint of flaky sea salt makes for a taste that’s simply unforgettable.

Easy to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring only basic baking skills to achieve gourmet results.

Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts, to create a cookie that matches your taste.

Perfect Texture: With crispy edges and a soft, chewy center, these cookies offer a delightful bite with every mouthful.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Great for sharing at gatherings or cozy nights in, these salted caramel cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Quick to Bake: You can whip up a batch in no time, making it easy to satisfy those sweet cravings without the wait. For more cookie ideas, check out these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies or Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies.

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; no substitutions recommended for best texture.
Baking soda – Helps cookies rise; essential for fluffy texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness; use kosher or sea salt for the best flavor.
Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and flavor; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Granulated sugar – Contributes to a crisp texture; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative.
Brown sugar – Adds moisture and caramel flavor; light or dark brown sugar works well.
Eggs – Provides binding and moisture; flax eggs can serve as a vegan substitute.
Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
Caramel chips – Creates gooey pockets of caramel; Kraft caramel bits are recommended for melting quality.
Chocolate chips (optional) – Adds richness; feel free to omit or swap with dark chocolate.
Flaky sea salt – Finishing touch for sweet-salty contrast; essential for flavor balance.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. While the oven warms up, prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will help your salted caramel cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking, making clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination will provide the perfect structure and flavor for your salted caramel cookies. Once well combined, set the bowl aside to focus on the wet ingredients next.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the chewy texture that makes these cookies irresistible.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
With the mixer on low speed, add 1 large egg and another egg yolk to the butter mixture, followed by 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing. The extra yolk will enhance the cookie’s richness, contributing to the ultimate salted caramel cookie delight.

Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want a soft dough that is slightly sticky yet holds together well.

Step 6: Fold in Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in 1 cup of caramel chips and, if desired, ½ cup of chocolate chips. Ensure even distribution throughout the dough, creating those gooey pockets of caramel in your salted caramel cookies. This step adds depth and richness, taking the flavor to the next level.

Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, place rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows your cookies to spread during baking and achieve that perfect chewy texture. Aim for about 12 cookies on each sheet.

Step 8: Sprinkle Salt and Bake
Before placing the cookie sheets in the oven, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt onto each dough ball. This final touch enhances the sweet and salty profile of your salted caramel cookies. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden while the centers remain soft.

Step 9: Cool Cookies
Once baked, remove the salted caramel cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This step allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Use a spatula to gently move the cookies to the rack for complete cooling.

What to Serve with Ultimate Salted Caramel Cookies?

Delightful treats are best enjoyed with a well-curated meal experience that enhances their sweetness and creates memorable moments.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess perfectly balances the warm, chewy texture of the cookies, creating a heavenly contrast.
Rich Hot Chocolate: Pair your cookies with a cup of rich hot chocolate for a cozy dessert moment, accentuating the sweet and salty flavors.
Fresh Berries Salad: A refreshing mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of acidity that cuts through the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful pairing that feels indulgent and satisfying.
Sweetened Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side for an extra creamy treat, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Nutty Trail Mix: The crunchy texture and savory flavors of a simple nut mix provide a delightful contrast to the chewy cookies, creating a nutritious balance.
Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic treat that pairs beautifully with the cookies, amplifying the sweet decadence that kids and adults alike will love.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet confections offer a unique texture and additional sweetness that perfectly complements the salted caramel cookies.
Milkshake: A thick and creamy milkshake can be a fun and indulgent way to enjoy the cookies, especially for a sweet end to a fun family meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Salted Caramel Cookies

Perfectly Soft Centers: Bake the cookies until the edges are golden, but the centers should still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Chill the Dough: For a thicker cookie, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent excessive spreading and creates a denser, chewier texture.
Use Quality Ingredients: Invest in high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract. These enhance the flavor profile of your salted caramel cookies, making the final treat even more delicious.
Monitor Salt Levels: When sprinkling flaky sea salt, start with a pinch. Too much can overpower the sweetness of the cookies. Aim for just enough to balance the flavors.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the texture light and tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies that don’t have that delightful chewiness.

Salted Caramel Cookie Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful salted caramel cookies to cater to your taste buds!

Add Chocolate Chips: Swap in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, sweet contrast to the salty caramel.
Nuts for Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to bring in a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the softness.
Flavored Chips: Experiment with white chocolate or peanut butter chips for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.

Try combining different chips for an incredible chocolatey explosion that will have your family begging for more!
Stuffed Cookies: Create awesome stuffed cookies by adding a dollop of caramel sauce inside the dough before baking for an extra gooey surprise.

Each bite will be a delightful blend of soft cookie and luscious caramel.
Oatmeal Add-In: Incorporate ½ cup of oats for added texture and heartiness, which paired nicely with the sweetness of caramel.

This twist gives a comforting, rustic vibe that’s perfect for those who enjoy a chewy consistency.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough.

This surprising kick can really elevate your cookie experience, making it both memorable and exciting.
Coconut Flakes: Stir in unsweetened coconut flakes to add a tropical flair and chewy texture to your cookies.

The nutty notes from the coconut complement the sweetness of caramel beautifully!

Don’t forget to treat yourself by pairing these cookies with a glass of milk or perhaps some warm coffee. And while you’re at it, for another dessert sensation, try making Pumpkin White Cookies or the delectable Banana Bread Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Ultimate Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating the dough in an airtight container. This not only helps the flavors meld together but also prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and bake as directed. Your cookies will be just as delicious and chewy as if you’d made them fresh that day!

Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and chewy texture.

Refrigerator: If you want to extend their lifespan, you can refrigerate the cookies, but this may alter their texture slightly, making them firmer.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Cookie Dough: Unbaked dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for future baking sessions. Just scoop the dough onto baking sheets and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripened ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing the butter, pick unsalted butter that is fresh—look for a creamy color and avoid any discoloration. For eggs, choose large, fresh eggs with no cracks for the best binding. The caramel chips should be smooth and shiny; avoid those with any off smells. Selecting quality ingredients ensures your salted caramel cookies turn out fantastic!

How should I store leftover salted caramel cookies?
To keep your cookies deliciously fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightful for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, popping them in the refrigerator is an option, but this can make them a bit firmer. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature for the best texture when served!

Can I freeze salted caramel cookies? How do I do that?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to preserve your cookies. To freeze, first cool the baked cookies completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months! When you are ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, and they’ll be delicious as ever!

What should I do if my cookie dough turns out too sticky?
Very often, a sticky dough means there’s too much moisture. Sometimes this can happen due to variations in flour. If that’s the case, you can gently fold in a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches a manageable consistency. Avoid overmixing; that’ll help keep the texture perfect for your salted caramel cookies.

Can I make this recipe vegan or for someone with allergies?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, swap the unsalted butter for a vegan butter alternative, and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs—just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken, and use it in place of one egg. Be sure to check your caramel chips for vegan compatibility! This way, everyone can enjoy the sweet magic of these cookies.